Welcoming New Beginnings After Our Beloved Pets Pass Away

In the loving embrace of our hearts, there is always a space for our cherished pets, even after they have left us. We can never fully understand the profound loss we feel when our beloved companions pass away. However, there are unique ways we can honor and celebrate their memories, ensuring that their bond with us is not forgotten.

Planting a Tree or Marking the Grave

One of the ways to honor pets after their death is to plant a tree above their grave. Planting a tree is a beautiful and meaningful way to say goodbye to a pet, as the tree will continue to grow as a symbol of their enduring presence in your life. As time goes on, the tree will not only stand as a physical reminder, but it will also grow and thrive, much like how your beloved pet enriched your life in its time with you.

Remembering Pets through Ashes and Memorials

Another common practice is to cremate a pet and keep its ashes close. My first pet, or furd, was cremated and placed in a small yet significant urn, which now sits in a place of honor atop my armoire. Every urn I've accumulated over the years serves as a tangible link to the pets I've loved. Placing the urns in a bedroom or in a dedicated cabinet can keep the memory of these beloved animals close.

Making a Lasting Statement: Honoring Pets with a Permanent Memorial

For those who prefer a more lasting testament to their pet’s memory, consider a small monument, cross, or stone in your yard. This can be a simple or elaborately designed marker that stands as a symbol of your pet's life and spirit, providing a focal point for reflection and remembrance.

Alternatively, you can spread your pet's ashes in a place they both loved. This might be a favorite park, a scenic hill, or a sandy beach where they spent many happy times together. This way, you can feel a sense of connection to their spirit as you explore the same landscape.

Planning for the Future

Thinking about what will happen to our collections of pet companions after we pass can be daunting, but it's also an opportunity to reflect on the beauty of life and the legacy we leave behind. If/when the Valles Caldera volcano were to erupt (a highly unlikely event, but a fascinating natural wonder for sure), the ashes of your beloved pets, including your own, would be dispersed into the wind, traveling around the world together. Just as your pets' love touched you, it will continue to inspire all those who find their ashes.

Looking Forward to New Beginnings

Just as the cycle of nature continues, the cycle of life and love goes on. After the loss of one pet, it's important to remember and cherish the beautiful moments that their memory brings. Give yourself the gift of another wonderful pet, and know that in doing so, you are also honoring the memory of your beloved companions.

By moving on to form new connections and memories with new pets, you can ensure that the joy and love shared with your previous pets endure, making way for new stories and happiness.

Remember, the love and happiness that your pets brought into your life are gifts that will never truly leave you. Keep their memories close to your heart and carry on the love and joy they brought into your life.